About the Organisation:
National Services Scotland (NSS) is a national NHS Board operating right at the heart of NHSScotland providing invaluable support and advice at a strategic and operational level. NSS supports customers to deliver their services more efficiently and effectively and we offer shared services on a national scale using best-in-class systems and standards. Our priority is always the same – to improve the health and well-being of the people of Scotland. We do this by working in partnership with colleagues across Health and Social Care to deliver fit for purpose solutions and systems, delivering high quality services that help our stakeholders to free up resources so they can be re-invested into essential services.
NHSScotland Assure was launched on 1st June 2021 and forms part of NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) Board. NHSScotland Assure exists to improve how we manage risk in the healthcare-built environment across Scotland. It encompasses some of the existing services provided by Health Facilities Scotland (HFS) and Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection (ARHAI) in addition to the new services offered by Assure. NHSScotland Assure’s core purpose is to deliver and coordinate a diverse range of effective expert advice and support services in relation to national infection prevention control, construction, equipping, and technical matters that support and improve health and well-being services.
The Post:
This role will contribute to developing, maintaining and delivering one or more Healthcare Scientist Technical programmes of work under the guidance of senior and more experienced scientific staff. The post holder will provide advice and information to a range of stakeholders on built environment and user safety.
The service provides an evidence base to support the development of NHSScotland Assure technical guidance and advice. This is important for creating a safe, effective, and person-centred environment for all building users, including patients, carers, and healthcare providers. Topics will cover areas such as ventilation, water, drainage, electrical and medical gas systems, fire suppression, sustainability, and healthcare design.
The Candidate:
We are looking to recruit three Healthcare Scientists to join our team. These roles are crucial in developing the evidence base necessary to ensure that NHSScotland Assure’s technical advice and guidance are grounded not only in best practice but also in the best available evidence.
As a Healthcare Scientist, you will support technical subject matter experts, programme leads, and senior staff by conducting scientific literature reviews, presenting technical and scientific data, and participating in research activities related to healthcare estates and facilities. You will effectively communicate this information to senior staff and stakeholders. Key areas of focus may include, but are not limited to, the design of healthcare facilities, water and ventilation systems, electrical systems, fire safety, facilities management and sustainability. The post holders will offer support across NHSScotland Assure and collaborate with other groups involved in this field.
The ideal candidate will have a Postgraduate-level education or equivalent experience in a scientific, technical, or research field. You should have a proven track record as a team player, with excellent planning and organisational abilities, as well as well-developed analytical skills, including experience in conducting literature reviews and knowledge of research methodologies. Familiarity with NHS Scotland healthcare estates and facilities would be an advantage. It is essential that you embody the NSS values of working with respect and care, openness, and integrity.
Location and Working Pattern:
Gyle Square, Edinburgh or Delta House, Glasgow
Currently, we operate a hybrid working model with a flexible fixed staff base.
3 x Work pattern (full-time) Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week.
It is a condition of this employment that you must live and remain a resident within the UK for the post in which you will be employed with NSS.
Benefits:
Ourbenefits package includes pension scheme, comprehensive range of work life balance policies, occupational health services, learning resource centres and discounted leisure, financial and shopping benefits.
Inclusion:
Further information:
Closing date for completed applications is Midnight Tuesday 28th October 2025.
Pleasenote that the majority of correspondence is sent by e-mail only, so please check your e-mail regularly (including junk folders).
NHS National Services Scotland is an equal opportunities employer and as committed participant in the disability confident scheme, guarantees to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies
